Not-so-Secret Santa The rules are easy: go to any shopping area, designate a max gift dollar amount (like $20), then split up for 30 minutes while you find something special for that special someone. Then exchange gifts over dinner and a nice glass of wine.

Holiday Movie Marathon When the weather outside is frightful, curl up on the couch with a holiday classic. The best holiday movie of all time is debatable (it’s A Christmas Story), but you can’t go wrong with any of the holiday movies on POPSUGAR’s list.

Snowshoeing If you’ve never been, you don’t know what you’re missing. There’s a reason it’s the fastest-growing winter sport in the world. Even better, it’s easy to do. Strap some on and go for it, or check out this tutorial from Snowshoe Magazine.

Couples Massage We’re feeling more relaxed just thinking about it. Kick back and enjoy some romantic time together while you both get pampered. Or if you want to try the home version, this video tutorial can get you started.

Visit Non-Relatives As in rent a house near your very own. Why? You’ll be treated like a guest without the travel time, and you’ll get away from any household chores. You can just enjoy each other’s company and let someone else wash the hand towels.

Couples Cooking Class Even if you’re already an accomplished cook (does French toast count?), there’s something romantic about sharing a cutting board. And if you’re in the Seattle area, here’s a handy list of classes.

Restaurant Roulette OK, so you’re not into cooking. Then how about a game of chance that ends with someone cooking for you? Just put 10 names of local restaurants you haven’t tried yet into a hat, and pick one for that night. Voilà, date night is served.

Make your holidays cheery and bright with a visit to some of the most amazing light displays on earth.

SHARE THIS LIST:

1.

City Centre Lights—Vienna City streets and shops bathed in monochromatic white lights and giant light-encrusted chandeliers make this a decidedly European experience (fans of red and blue lights, you’ll find those as well). Check out the view here. (Photo courtesy of Flickr WienTourismus / Peter Rigaud)

Grand Palace Light Show—Brussels An architectural masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Grand Palace gets a modern holiday treatment: a giant projected light show with a full musical score. Words can’t do it justice, but here’s the video.

Austin Trail of Lights—Austin, TX Now in its 52nd year, this collection of lighted tunnels and mind-blowing displays features more than two million lights that take a whopping 15,000 man-hours to create. Experience a bit of last year’s magic here. (Photo courtesy of Dear Wesleyann Photography)

Kobe Luminarie—Kobe, Japan Commemorating the Great Hanshin earthquake of 1995, this light festival presents “a symbol of hope, recovery, and renovation.” The intricate designs of this 200,000-light display are both poignant and breathtaking, and a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. (Photo courtesy of Flickr Marufish)

Christmas in Tivoli Gardens—Copenhagen This is no neighborhood block with a few light displays, this is all of Tivoli decorated in lighted spruce trees, 60,000 colored balls, and 40 km (24 miles) of fairy light strings. See more of the Tivoli festivities here. (Photo courtesy of Flickr Pedro Plassen Lopes)

Winter Festival of Lights—Niagara Falls, NY Yes, that Niagara Falls. From November 19 to January 21, the Festival of Lights illuminates the city and the falls with a rainbow of holiday cheer. And it’s more than just a selfie opp. Find out more here.

Snow. Lights. Wine. Now that’s how to spend a weekend with the girls. So grab your parkas and hit one of these winter wonderlands.

SHARE THIS LIST:

1.

Winter Carnival in Québec City You know you’re in a winter wonderland when CNN ranks you as one of the “top-10 destinations for celebrating the holidays.” The city is truly transformed for the season, with holiday markets, tours from costumed guides, and live concerts.

Asheville, NC Asheville rolls out all the stops—a national gingerbread house competition, a winter lights display at the North Carolina Arboretum, and a cliff-rappelling entrance by Santa himself. Our favorite attraction might be the Biltmore Estate, a 250-room mansion decked out in holiday cheer. (Photo courtesy of Flickr Jim R Rogers)

Nantucket, MA There are plenty of festivities to get you into the holiday mood in Nantucket, but our favorite is the Christmas Stroll. In the 1970s, it provided an opportunity for people to shop local. Now it’s a holiday-defining event that brings out the whole town.

Everything you need to know about how to enter, prizes and more. Plus, see what perfect sips people are sharing on Facebook & Instagram.

How to enter

1. Log in to your Instagram account, or enter on our Facebook page.

2. Upload and tag your perfect sip photo with #10PerfectSips #Contest

3. Stay connected! New opportunities each week to enter.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Contest starts 11/21/16 at 12:00 PM ET and ends 12/25/16 at 11:59:59 PM ET. Open only to eligible legal residents of the 50 US/DC, 21 years or older. Click here for Official Rules and complete details, including entry instructions, entry periods, judging criteria, prize details and restrictions, etc. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Sponsor: Ste. Michelle Wine Estates Ltd. Message and data rates may apply.

GRAND PRIZE WINNER

Each of the five weekly winners will have their entries posted on Chateau Ste. Michelle's Facebook page. Fans will vote for their favorite, and that person will take home the grand prize.

GRAND PRIZE

The grand prize winner will receive the ultimate travel package at a value of nearly $3,000, including an Airbnb gift card, GoPro, Kindle, luggage and much more.

WEEKLY PRIZES

Each week, we'll be giving away an amazing prize package that includes Riedel Wine Glasses, a cheese board and knives, a Chateau Ste. Michelle throw blanket and more. Stay connected! We'll have new opportunities to enter each week.

Holiday Karaoke Party Forget having a silent night, crank up the music and pull out the holiday song list. Don’t have your list handy? Start with these 20 Christmas songs people never get sick of. Hmm, “never” is a strong word.

Giving Tree Party Sometimes, it’s much better to give than to receive. Ask guests to bring a toy for the Toys for Tots program to go under the tree, and brighten up the holidays for a child in need. Find your local Toys for Tots program here.

Naughty or Nice Party Real lumps of coal are so cliché. We prefer the chocolate variety—goes much better with a glass of wine. So get your list, check it twice, and then check out this Naughty or Nice Party board.

Two Truths & a Lie A free game that requires no game pieces yet has guests relinquishing their innermost secrets? We’re in. Each person takes turns telling two truths and one lie about themselves, and then others guess which one is the lie. We guarantee someone will surprise you.

Adult Hedbanz It’s worth it purely for the stylish headwear. A classic game of “What am I?” but the answer sits attached firmly to your forehead. Ask yes or no questions to get to the answer. And if you want to get really creative, make your own cards.

Twister The ultimate party game needs no introduction. It’s not that kind of party, you say? OK, just set one board on the floor and walk away. We bet your guests are tangled in knots faster than you can say, “Left foot, blue.”

Game of Phones Ok, how cool is this: your phone becomes your game piece as party guests are challenged to find their best selfies, show off their funniest texts, or play the first song that comes up on shuffle.

Five-Second Rule We promise there’s no eating food off the floor. Instead, the five seconds are the precious little time a player has to answer such questions as “Name Three Things You Do When No One’s Looking.” It’s one of Ellen’s favorite games too.

A homemade decorations party is exactly what the holidays need. Start with a group of your girlfriends, and just add wine, glitter, and glue.

SHARE THIS LIST:

1.

Crafty Stockings Go beyond the classic red boot with these 37 crazy, crafty stocking ideas. From turning old sweaters into new stockings, to creating stockings out of antique wood, there’s something for every Santa’s helper.

Learn a Second Language C’est bon! Or muy bien, if you prefer. With free apps like Duolingo you can start learning French, Spanish, Italian or even Brazilian Portuguese. And with a practice partner at the ready, it can become a weekly date.

AUSTIN, TX Southern hospitality knows no bounds. What other city boasts over 200 dog-friendly restaurants and the chance to do yoga alongside your pooch? A center for animal activism, Austin is also the largest adoption-only city in the States.

ASHEVILLE, NC George Vanderbilt’s Biltmore Estate might just make for the best dog-walking grounds in the entire country. With over 8,000 acres to explore, you and your furry friend better pack a picnic!

SAN DIEGO, CA The center of the dog-surfing world, San Diego and its surf dog surf-a-thon draws spectators and participants from near and far. For those yet to find their sea legs, there’s always the annual National Dog Party Day. (Photo courtesy of Helen Woodward Animal Center's Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon)

DEL MAR, CA For a more calm, secluded feel, travel just north of San Diego to the charming town of Del Mar for its dog-friendly stretch of beach. The dog-walker’s heaven is one of Southern California’s few destinations where you won’t need a car. (Photo courtesy of Visit Del Mar Village)

ORLANDO, FL Join thousands of dog and art-lovers in Winter Park, Florida each April for the Doggie Art Festival. Pet-inspired artists, pet-related vendors, adoption organizations and live music make this free event a hit for pups and their parents.

ALBUQUERQUE, NM You know a town takes its dog hospitality seriously when city hall holds a Mayor’s Dog Ball every year. Besides that, 33,000 acres of public parks and 300 days of sun mean plenty of time and space for the outdoors.

DENVER, CO A whole lot of dog parks, including four downtown, plus even more sunshine means plenty of outdoor adventures in the Mile-High City. And to recover, Hotel Teatro offers “Pawdicure” (and pedicure) specials.

SEATTLE, WA Magnuson Park in Seattle shows how much the city loves four-legged friends. Its 8.6 acres of off-leash area includes a Lake Washington doggie beach, and a play zone just for smaller dogs.(Photo courtesy of Flickr Wonderlane)

From scenic winding trails to majestic mountaintop views, these 10 must-hit hikes will bring out the nature lover in you.

SHARE THIS LIST:

1.

West Maroon Creek Trail, Colorado In a state known for natural beauty, this 10-mile hike stands out. Traverse a gorgeous glacial valley, then over Maroon Pass…at a truly breathtaking 12,480 feet. (Photo courtesy of Flickr Mark Byzewski)

Harding Icefield Trail, Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska A jaw dropping eight mile day hike through cottonwood and alder forests before rising above the tree line for spectacular views over the Harding Icefield – 300 square miles of shimmering snow and ice. But check conditions first, as snow on the trail can last through early July. (Photo courtesy of Flickr Amy Meredith)

Yosemite Valley Loop Trail, Yosemite, California There’s a reason Yosemite is popular – there’s so much natural beauty in one place. Try the Valley Loop Trail (11.5 miles full loop, 7.2 for half). It’ll take you through tranquil meadows, below towering granite cliffs and along the Merced River on your way to El Capitan. (Photo courtesy of Flickr Glenn Scofield Williams)

Kalalau Trail, Kauai, Hawaii Also called the Hanakapi’ai Trail, this is THE hike on the hike-filled island of Kauai. The 11-mile trail is as beautiful as it is challenging, taking you along the Ke’e Beach past coastal cliffs, waterfall-lined ridges and large, lush valleys.

Giant of the Valley, Adirondacks, New York Giant Mountain is the 12th highest among the 46 High Peaks in the Adirondacks, and has a view to match. But you don’t have to wait for the summit, there are plenty of lookouts that let you take in the high peaks and expansive valley along the way. (Photo courtesy of Flickr Christopher Rines)

Lost Mine Trail, Big Bend National Park, Texas Covering more than 1,000 feet in five miles, the Lost Mine Trail isn’t a walk in the park. But it does give you a chance to see the Casa Grande Peak in all its glory. The summit is unmistakable—the trail ends at a jutted rock that lets you gaze out on Juniper Canyon. (Photo courtesy of Flickr Adam Baker)

Hannegan Pass Trail, Washington The oldest-known volcanic center in the area (don’t worry, it was four million years ago), this hike boasts steeply eroded cliffs along with glacial waterfalls. The best is saved for last though—360-degree views of glorious North Cascade peaks and glaciers including the High Divide, Nooksack Ridge, Mount Baker, East Nooksack Glacier and Ruth Mountain.

The Highline Loop, Logan Pass, Montana The spectacular views are on display every step of this 11.8-mile hike along the Continental Divide. Wildlife and wildflowers abound, and views of Mount Cannon, Mount Oberlin and Heavens Peak won’t disappoint. Stop at Haystack Pass to eat lunch and soak in the panoramic view at 7,486 feet. (Photo courtesy of Flickr Greg Willis)

White Oak Canyon, Shenandoah National Park, Virginia Boasting six(!) waterfalls along its trail, this easygoing hike is a visitor favorite. Crisscross over cascading creeks on wooden footbridges (no wet toes) on your way to the 86-foot falls at the top. Even better, it’s open year-round. (Photo courtesy of Flickr Diane Norgaard)

Noanet Woodlands, Dover, Massachusetts Just 13 miles from Boston with 17 miles of trails. We suggest heading toward Noanet Peak. At 387 feet, it features sweeping views of the glorious Boston skyline. You’ll also find ponds, blooming wildflowers, and a historic mill. (Photo courtesy of Flickr Mike Halsall)

Walla Walla, Washington OK, we may be a liiiittle biased, but Washington wine country is the perfect getaway for women who like great wine. But there’s more to Walla Walla than wine—it’s also one of the top cycling destinations in the state.

Long Beach, Washington Don’t let the laid-back vibe of this town fool you. The city fills the summer calendar with amazing events, from sand-sculpting festivals to beach concerts, arts festivals and Washington’s International Kite Festival.

Wallowa Lake, Oregon One of the most beloved areas of northeast Oregon, Wallowa offers scenic beauty and outdoor fun. Rent a cabin, then hike, ride or paddle the day away, or take the Wallowa tram 3,700 feet to the top of Mount Howard.

Catalina Island, California Accessible only by ship or helicopter, but it’s well worth the effort with amazing restaurants, shops, and scenery. Rent a golf cart and tour the island, or try the zip-line course that takes you 300 feet above the canyon floor.

Hood River, Oregon The place where the Cascade Mountain Range and Columbia River Gorge meets is a paradise for hikers. As well as for foodies, sightseers, or windsurfers—it’s often called the windsurfing capital of the world.

Seabrook, Washington Old meets modern in this classically new beach town. Rent a cottage, then stroll the beach, hit the shops, or go enjoy the peaceful serenity of the farm district. Then try the wine tasting. Definitely go wine tasting.

Wine, music and summer. Now that’s our kind of party. Get yours started with 10 of our favorites songs, plus the lyrics that make us love them, then add your own to our Spotify List.

SHARE THIS LIST:

1.

Make You Miss Me by Sam Hunt Lyrics that make us love it: “You think it’s easy, but that’s a lie; The only reason that you’re good at good-bye is; Every boy you ever met was too easy to forget; Well, I ain’t going out like that”Click here to listen to the playlist.

Wasted Time by Keith Urban Lyrics that make us love it: “Summer dresses drying out on the hood of the car; Only music that we had was out the left speaker; We were living every second ’til the time ran out; We had nothing, but we had it all”Click here to listen to the playlist.

Crazy in Love by Beyoncé Lyrics that make us love it: “Tennis shoes, don’t even need to buy a new dress; If you ain’t there, ain’t nobody else to impress; The way that you know what I thought I knew; It’s the beat my heart skips when I’m with you"Click here to listen to the playlist.

I Gotta Feeling by The Black Eyed Peas Lyrics that make us love it: “Here we come, here we go, we gotta rock; Easy come, easy go, now we on top; Feel the shot, body rock, rock it, don’t stop; Round and round, up and down, around the clock”Click here to listen to the playlist.

Love Never Felt So Good by Michael Jackson, Justin Timberlake Lyrics that make us love it: “Baby, love never felt so fine; And I’d doubt if it was ever mine; Not like you hold me, hold me; Oh baby, love never felt so good”Click here to listen to the playlist.

Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd Lyrics that make us love it: “Well I heard Mister Young sing about her; Well I heard old Neil put her down; Well, I hope Neil Young will remember; A southern man don't need him around anyhow” Click here to listen to the playlist.

Cheap Thrills by Sia Lyrics that make us love it: “Come on, come on, turn the radio on; It’s Saturday and I won’t be long; Gotta paint my nails, put my high heels on; It’s Saturday and I won’t be long”Click here to listen to the playlist.

Walking on a Dream by Empire of the Sun Lyrics that make us love it: “Don’t stop, just keep going on; I’m your shoulder to lean upon; So come on, deliver from inside; All we got is tonight that is right till first light”Click here to listen to the playlist.

Groundhog Day Bill Murray is at his best as self-centered, narcissistic Phil the weatherman. But this laugh-out-loud comedy has a poignant message of redemption and true love—it’s only by acting from the heart that Phil can break the Groundhog Day spell and win over his soul mate.

Singles Arguably the rom-com that defines the 1990s. Sorry, Sleepless in Seattle. Singles is also set in Seattle. With grunge. And an ensemble cast of the ’90s “it” crowd. Did we mention little-known writer/director Cameron Crowe? In short, something for everyone.

There’s Something about Mary The Farrelly brothers meet Ben Stiller, Matt Dillon and Cameron Diaz. What’s not to love? Behind the jokes (which pushed all kinds of boundaries at the time) was the story of love lost and found again. Also, Brett Favre in a shocking rom-com twist.

Boomerang Eddie Murphy shows his romantic side as a successful ad executive and chronic womanizer who finds love after a . . . your husband or boyfriend has lost interest, hasn’t he? Then just tell him Chris Rock, Martin Lawrence, David Alan Grier AND Halle Berry are all featured.

As Good as It Gets Okay, so Jack Nicholson and Helen Hunt aren’t exactly as cute as Bennifer (another ’90s reference!), but they won Best Actor and Best Actress Oscars for their work in this film—making As Good as It Gets the most recent movie to win both awards.

The Cutting Edge You might have to put this one on before he gets in the room and cue it up to a hockey scene, because competitive couples figure skating might be a tough sell. But this story of a has-been hockey star and a spoiled rich skater falling for each other is pure gold.

10 Things I Hate about You This film barely squeaked into the ’90s in 1999. Prior to Heath Ledger’s unforgettable turn as the Joker, he played Patrick Verona, a bad boy with a questionable past “hired” to woo a fiercely independent girl in his high school. Sound a little like Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew? Shhhh. Our secret.

Monkey Beach, Malaysia No false advertising here: this beach gets its name from the crab-eating macaque that call it home. A perfect swimming spot, Monkey Beach is one of the few white sand beaches left on Penang Island. (Photo courtesy of Brent 2.0)

Sandcut Beach, Vancouver, B.C. A rugged timber-lined trail leads to this spectacular Canadian pebble beach. The waterfalls are some of the biggest attractions and are at their strongest in the spring, winter and fall.

Dry Tortugas, Key West Take the Dry Tortugas Ferry or fly into these seven small islands for incredible snorkeling and powder-white sand. Then explore Fort Jefferson, one of the largest 19th-century forts in the United States.

North Beach, Barbuda, Caribbean Maybe its unassuming name has kept it off the tourist radar. Or maybe it’s because it’s 10 miles from the island’s only town. Regardless, it’ll feel like it’s all yours. Comb the beach for messages in a bottle—a Barbudan favorite.

Playón de Mismaloya, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Located an hour from Puerto Vallarta, these 40 (yes, 40!) miles of beach offer a sea of tranquility and a safe haven for turtles. But jump on that rowing machine first—you can only get there by rowboat.

Grab your purse and best friend, and get ready to shop until you drop in these 10 amazing shopping districts.

SHARE THIS LIST:

1.

NW 23rd Avenue, Portland, OR Is going “boutiquing” a thing? Well, it is on NW 23rd, where you can peruse local designers and independent shops. Much less formal than Rodeo Drive, you’re in for a casual day of fun exploration and one-of-a-kind finds.

San Marcos Premium Outlets, San Marcos, TX Great shopping doesn’t have to be full price. Just 30 minutes from Austin, this mall features 145 stores, including retailers “that can’t be found anywhere else in Texas.” And its architecture is based on the Piazza San Marco in Venice, Italy.

Union Square, San Francisco, CA High fashion and fantastic food? Sign us up. From luxury boutiques to big retail stores, Union Square has everything, with plenty of amazing restaurants in between. Finding things to buy is easy, parking is not. So take a cab or Uber if you can.

The Grove, Los Angeles, CA Right next to the Farmers’ Market, this shopping area “offers the hottest, newest fashions, must-have gadgets . . . the most gorgeous décor and the hippest furniture.” Plus it’s known for celebrity sightings! And don’t miss the outdoor stage with concerts, movies and more. (Photo courtesy of Prayitno)

Pike Place Market & Downtown, Seattle, WA Seattle offers a two-for-one: the world-famous Pike Place Market has everything from crafty to crazy, with fresh seafood to boot. And it’s right downtown, so you’re mere blocks from high-end retailers and the Pacific Place mall.

We’re all for kicking back, glass in hand. But it’s nice to shake things up too. And we mean really shake them up.

SHARE THIS LIST:

1.

The Slide at the Arcelormittal Orbit, London, England Opening in June of 2016, this 583-foot tube slide will be the longest in the world. Built on London’s tallest piece of public art, the 40-second ride circles the ArcelorMittal Orbit 12 times, with peek-a-boo views of the London skyline.

ZERO-G Experience (cities around the United States)
The specially modified Boeing 727 allows passengers to “float, flip and soar” in total weightlessness. The planes are touring across 12 cities in 2016. But at $5K per person, the price is almost as steep as the flight.

Edge-Walk, Toronto, Canada Who doesn’t like a nice walk outside, 1,168 feet above the ground? Toronto’s tallest adventure lets you become an official “EdgeWalker,” and comes with photos and a video of your walk, and a certificate of achievement.

Castleberry Hill Historic Arts District, Atlanta, GA: 2nd Friday This pedestrian-friendly arts district features a mix of established and up-and-coming artists from Atlanta and around the world. With plenty of great restaurants and bars between the groups of galleries and studios.

The Downtown Art Walk, Los Angeles, CA: 2nd Thursday The Downtown Art Walk in the Historic Core features almost 50 galleries. But get there early – the event attracts more than 25,000 visitors each month. (Photo courtesy of @the_curatore)

Pioneer Square, Seattle, WA: 1st Thursday Seattle’s Pioneer Square can lay claim to being the first art walk in the United States. Starting in 1981, the many galleries that pack this historic district open their doors to introduce new exhibits and artists every month. (Photo courtesy of DieselDemon)

Art Walk at Wynwood, Miami, FL: 2nd Saturday Fantastic art is everywhere in Wynwood, starting with the walls: you’ll find a stunning collection of wall murals and street art on former warehouses and new buildings. Galleries are open between 7 pm and 10 pm. (Photo courtesy of Kasey Billitz)

SFADA, San Francisco, CA: 1st Thursday A tradition since 1993, San Francisco galleries, from historic to contemporary, welcome all on every 1st Thursday. Several offer wine and light appetizers, and many have local artists on hand to discuss the inspiration behind their work. (Photo courtesy of Robert Koch Gallery and SFADA.com)

The High Line in the Meatpacking District, New York, NY: Open Daily As a public park, the High Line is open daily year-round. Built on a historic elevated train line above Manhattan’s West Side. This combination of lush greenery and thought-provoking art, including sculpture, performances and billboards promises something unique each visit. (Photo courtesy of Kārlis Dambrāns)

SoWa, Boston, MA: 1st Friday Resurrected from a run-down warehouse district, SoWa (short for “South of Washington”) is a bustling collection of art galleries, studios and shops. You can also enjoy the SoWa Vintage Market and SoWa Open Market, open every weekend starting in June. (Photo courtesy of SoWa Sundays)

Sante Fe Railyard Arts District, Sante Fe, NM: Last Friday Developed on 50 acres of previously neglected land seven blocks from downtown, the Sante Fe Railyard Arts District showcases some of the top contemporary artists in Sante Fe in warehouse-style galleries. It also features a cycling and walking trail. (Photo courtesy of Rennett Stowe)

Just Fondue It Melted cheese plus almost anything else is a surefire party starter. You’ll need a fondue pot and some killer recipes. Cleanup is fairly easy, so you won’t get stuck doing a lot of dishes while your guests enjoy the party.

Summer Blossoms Walk into a room full of flowers, and your day will instantly get better. Add bouquets throughout the room, decorate with summer pastels, and serve up custom cupcakes with flower-patterned frosting. Plant some of these to spruce up the yard. (Photo courtesy of Flocke™)

Cheese & Apples Potluck Even easier than fondue. Stock up on crackers and have half the partygoers supply their favorite cheeses, and ask the other half to bring slices of their favorite apples (there are 7,500 varieties worldwide, but we’re partial to Washington’s).

Greek Out Nothing complements summer like Mediterranean apps and décor. Hummus, nuts, cheese, pita bread—it’s a quick spread with something for everyone. Check out these Greek recipes from Allrecipes.com. Just add white linens and ocean-blue touches to complete the look.

Tailgate! One-up the typical tailgate with Chateau Ste. Michelle and a sports theme. Who needs a big game? With baseball happening throughout the summer, decorate in your team’s colors and serve snacks in red-and-white-checkered paper trays reminiscent of the ballpark.

Keep It Cool Cool things down on those hot summer evenings by hosting an ice cream party. Yes, ice cream can also be paired with wine. Grab a few cartons or, if you’re feeling ambitious, try one of these homemade ice cream recipes.

Seafood Bake Summer time is beach time. Grab a few bowls, shell crackers and, of course, melted butter for a seafood bake. Get started with these recipe ideas, and creative table settings and decor to go with the lobster bibs.

"Adult Scouts" Backyard Campire You don’t have to “rough it” to go camping! Sit around a fire pit making s’mores, toast to friends, tell ghost stories, look at the stars and play charades. Bonus: give out badges for tying knots (or tying the knot) and completing other activities.

Candle Night Candles add ambiance to any occasion—this time, they’re the occasion! Set up candles throughout your place. Have guests bring candles and play secret candle (like Secret Santa). And here’s a trick to make a candleholder from a wine bottle.

Karaoke Night Sing songs of summer or your favorite classics. It’s quick to set up, inside or out, and you can easily find plenty of karaoke on YouTube. Now all you need is a group of friends and your favorite wines.

BBQ Potluck Whether it’s July Fourth or a sunny Saturday, a BBQ always brings out the fun. Fire up the grill and ask friends to bring the sides! BBQ foods usually pair with reds, but check out our pairing guide for help.

Summer Awards As summer winds down, grab a bit of gold spray paint and some fun objects for a summer awards ceremony. Our favorite categories include Best Party, Most Epic Vacation, Best Selfie, Best Instagram and Cutest Couple.

Birthday. Party. Two of our favorite words. But this is your best friend, so just putting out cake and balloons simply won’t do.

SHARE THIS LIST:

1.

Red Hot This theme has one simple rule: red, red and red. Put together red balloons, tablecloths, glasses, red food and of course red wine, to remind her how smokin’ hot she is. Later, you can paint the town, well, you know.

Grown-up Slumber Party Why would you not host an adult sleepover? Comfy dress code: check. Excuse for a second glass of wine (no travel!): check. Opportunity to party in the morning: check. Get inspired with tips from Apartment Therapy.

Food Truck Party Not only is this totally a thing, it’s also an amazing way to cater a party. Focus on décor, and leave the delicious, delicious food to the pros. Follow these tips to make your food-truck party a success.

Decades of Fun It’s never not-fun to get glammed up with a decade-themed party. The secret is to focus on the details, from costumes, to your playlist, to party favors. Here are some tubular tips to help you throw an awesome 80’s party.

Let the Games Begin An outdoor-games theme is a great way to get everyone involved and inspire some friendly competition. You’ll want a good-sized yard, or hit the nearest park. Here's some inspiration to get you going.

Why wait for a big national holiday? Here are 10 perfectly good reasons to gather friends and family together.

SHARE THIS LIST:

1.

Completing Boot Camp Set the date before you begin for added motivation. Then invite fellow boot camp attendees for a party with fresh fruit and other healthy snacks. It’s a great way to keep the healthy going, and celebrate your hard work.

Obedience School Graduation Ceremony One caveat: taking this too seriously can get weird. But having your pupper finish obedience school is a great excuse reason to throw a party. Besides, what kind of crowd doesn’t love a good dog show?

Getting A New Job or Promotion These are often more rare than birthdays, so why do we default to a nice dinner out or a single happy-hour toast? Gather your besties together to truly enjoy the moment. Because more challenging work is usually ahead.

Finishing a Big Presentation There’s nothing like the feeling of walking out of a room after knocking it out of the park. Plan for success in advance and set up a celebratory dinner together or after-work party for the evening after the big presentation.

Day of Giving Organize a volunteer party, then after party, for you and your friends. Find a worthwhile charity here, then gather the troops to volunteer your time. Host a celebration afterward where everyone can feel good about doing good.

Friend Appreciation Party How many times do you think to yourself, “I love my friends.” Well, it’s time to let them know too. Have a “Friend Appreciation Party” where you and your friends share stories and show how much you appreciate each other.

Birthdays That End in 5 Who says 25, 35, 45, and 55 aren’t as monumental as 30, 40 and 50? Halfway through a decade usually comes with more confidence and success, so take the time to celebrate life’s midpoints, not just the round numbers.

“Moved Into New Digs But Haven’t Unpacked Yet” Party There’s nothing like getting a new place. But with all the unpacking to do, the housewarming party can be months away. Instead, throw some tablecloths over the boxes, grab some wine, pizza and friends, and celebrate immediately.

Howl at the Moon It’s kind of like a big disco ball in the sky, right? When the full moon hits, get some glow-in-the-dark décor, set up a telescope for stargazing and have people over to bask in the lunar light.

Bossypants by Tina Fey “From her tour of duty on Saturday Night Live . . . to her life as a mother eating things off the floor . . . Tina Fey reveals all, and proves what we’ve all suspected: you’re no one until someone calls you bossy.”

Bitter Is the New Black by Jen Lancaster "The soul-searching story of a woman trying to figure out what happens next when she’s gone from six figures to unemployment checks and she stops to reconsider some of the less-than-rosy attitudes and values she thought she’d never have to answer for . . .”

The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson "A devious tale of psychological suspense so irresistible that it prompts Entertainment Weekly to ask, ‘Is The Kind Worth Killing the next Gone Girl?’ From one of the hottest new thriller writers, Peter Swanson, and soon to be a major movie.”

Let’s Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson "Lawson's long-suffering husband and sweet daughter help her uncover the surprising discovery that the most terrible human moments—the ones we want to pretend never happened—are the very same moments that make us the people we are today.”

The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith “Detective Cormoran Strike investigates a supermodel’s suicide. You may think you know detectives, but you’ve never met one quite like Strike. Introducing Cormoran Strike, [in the] acclaimed first crime novel by J.K. Rowling, writing under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith.”

Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) by Mindy Kaling "In Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?, Mindy invites readers on a tour of her life and her unscientific observations on romance, friendship and Hollywood, with several conveniently placed stopping points for you to run errands and make phone calls.”

DIY for a fantastic party with friends. With these 10 craft parties, you may be launching a new Etsy business too.

SHARE THIS LIST:

1.

Eco-Friendly Totes You don’t have to wait for someone else to turn those plastic bags into something pretty and new. This Etsy post by Claire Cohen from Montclair Made shows you how to turn old grocery bags into your own unique and reusable tote bag. (Photo courtesy of Claire Cohen)

Hanging Mason Jar Light Hanging mason jar lights will make use of your old jars, brighten your home and make you look extra crafty to your guests. Pro tip: use an Edison bulb for some extra charm. Get started here.

Beach Cover-up For the beginner sewing crowd, try out this simple beach cover-up project. You’ll need a couple yards of fabric, trim, and a sewing machine. Don’t forget to plan some activities for your guests while they’re waiting to sew!

Chunky (No-Sew) Crochet Rug If you’re looking for a challenge with a great-looking payoff, try this no-sew crochet rug project. It’s a chunky, cozy addition to your space that can be a simple floor covering or a place setting for a houseplant.